Kona·Niro EVs, Racing to Success in the European Electric Vehicle Market

[Asia Economy Reporter Seong Giho] Hyundai Kia Motors' Kona Electric and Niro EV are performing well in the European market, where global electric vehicle brands are fiercely competing. In particular, these models have further increased their presence by ranking 3rd and 6th respectively in the European electric vehicle sales rankings for July.

According to 'EV Sales,' an electric vehicle specialized media outlet, on the 5th, in the European electric vehicle (battery + plug-in hybrid) market in July, Hyundai Motor's Kona Electric sold 4,444 units, and Kia Motors' Niro EV sold 3,371 units. Considering only pure electric vehicle sales, they ranked 2nd and 4th respectively. The Niro Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) sold 1,812 units, ranking 17th.

Looking at cumulative sales in the European market up to July, the Kona Electric sold 15,971 units, and the Niro EV sold 11,865 units. Accordingly, the cumulative sales rankings show the Kona Electric at 6th place (5th among pure electric vehicles) and the Niro EV at 10th place (8th among pure electric vehicles).

What is drawing attention is the remarkable sales momentum of the Kona Electric in July. The Kona Electric sold 2,745 units in the European market in June, but sales surged to 4,444 units in July. About 25% of this year’s sales were made in July alone.

The secret to this sales growth is interpreted as the Czech Nosovice plant, which produces the Kona Electric, having somewhat recovered from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and operating normally, along with easier battery supply, supporting the volume. An automotive industry insider said, "Until now, Kona Electric sales were hindered by a shortage of supply," and added, "Niro EV’s sales growth seems to be due to Kia’s focused attack on the European market, increasing sales volume." Furthermore, positive conditions for sales are being created, raising expectations for even higher sales after August.

Meanwhile, the top-selling electric vehicle in the European market was Renault’s Zoe, which landed in Korea last month. The Zoe sold 9,388 units in July, recording a cumulative sales volume of 46,259 units this year.

The European electric vehicle market is growing rapidly every year. By the end of July this year, 514,959 units were sold, showing more than 180% growth compared to 285,362 units sold during the same period last year. Last year, a total of 564,206 electric vehicles were sold in Europe, and it is expected that sales will definitely surpass last year’s figures by August this year.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.